The typical initial appointment lasts an hour. During that time we will allow your pet to settle in for a few minutes before we get to work. The environment is pretty relaxed, but some pets (even those that are typically quite calm) can be a bit nervous or fidgety. The animals know this is something new and perhaps different, not like the typical vet office visit. It may take a couple of sessions for them to figure out what is happening and to settle in. As such, it is recommended to get your pet out for a walk or some exercise, if appropriate, prior to their appointment. It is also a good idea to bring treats for distraction. Larger animals will stay on the floor (with padding) for their sessions and smaller animals will be up on a table so we can better (and more comfortably) support them during their session. Most pets will go home and take a good nap after their session. It is recommended to have them take it easy for the next couple of days. Occasionally, your pet may be a bit sore after a session, if so it should be mild and only for about 24 hours. We are changing a lot of input from the nervous system which will move relative blood flow and change muscle memory.

Horses:

The horse work is done strictly on a mobile basis. The initial appointment is longer, occasionally up to 2 hours. Follow up appointments are shorter. Most horses have muscle tightness and pain for various reasons, mainly because they support a saddle and a rider (unlike dogs and cats). Muscle softening/releasing work is typically integrated into the session as it yields better, longer-lasting results when combined with the acupuncture and chiropractic. A flat, dry area is necessary to work in. Shelter is desirable but not always necessary. Weather conditions can be an issue pending shelter availability. It is recommended to give the horse 48 hours off from riding (especially if just starting this type of therapy) but to ensure plenty of movement during those few days post treatment (turn out and/or hand walking). As your horse moves into more of a maintenance phase, less time off post treatment is acceptable.

Hypothyroidism is the natural deficiency of thyroid hormone and is the most common hormone imbalance of dogs. This deficiency is produced by several different mechanisms. The most common cause (at least 95% of cases) is immune destruction of the thyroid gland. It can also be caused by natural atrophy ...

Feline distemper or feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious viral disease of kittens and adult cats caused by the feline parvovirus. It is also called panleukopenia as it affects the bone marrow and causes low white blood cell counts. It is relatively common in unvaccinated cats and is often fatal, ...